Bethenny Frankel Shocks Fans With 'Real Housewives Of New York City' Exit

posted by Emily Lee -
Aug 22, 2019

Bethenny Frankel shocked her fans by announcing her exit from The Real Housewives of New York City. The 48-year-old reality star penned a heartfelt message for her Instagram followers explaining her decision. She also took time to thank her fans for supporting her over the years, as well was promise them they haven't seen the last of her just yet.

"I wanted to take a moment to write a personal note to you. I am so grateful to you for sticking with me through everything. You started this journey with me in my tiny apartment in my late 30s, wondering what would happen to me. I was broke, single, had no family and no idea what the future held," Bethenny wrote. "I had big dreams and I never stopped, but I honestly didn’t know if I would ever get here. You helped me to get there."

"I would read your letters and messages and grow from your struggles. You would give me your honest opinion about my products and projects and helpful advice about divorce, relationships, motherhood, miscarriages, health, and surviving the death of a loved one and almost my own. You have shared your ideas with me and I have been inspired by and learned from you," she continued. "I am fortunate to have created a business and career that some people only dream of. I had a beautiful baby girl who is now 9 years old, and she has changed me as a human being. I was able to give back and help people all over the world who have been hit with the worst of unforeseen circumstances, which we will all continue together."

"Thank you so much for your love and support. And stay tuned, you haven’t seen the last of me. There are many amazing things to come. I love you all and am so lucky to have you in my life! PS: New York City is still my playground," she concluded. Here's the full post:

Sweet messages of support started pouring in quickly from Bethenny's fans. "I’ve been a fan since day 1 and that my dear will never change! I look forward to supporting all your future successes ! Enjoy your next chapter- love ya!" one fan wrote. "Without you, it’s just not the same. I’m happy for you and your next chapter — but I’m selfishly going to miss you on my tv," another added. Actress Leslie Grossman even commented telling Bethenny she "changed the game" and "no one gave better confessional or could slay a reunion with incredible style wit and humor quite like you did."

The former reality star released a statement to Variety, as well, expanding on her decision to depart from the franchise. "It’s time to move on and focus on my daughter, my philanthropy and my production partnership with Mark Burnett, producing and starring in shows which represent a shift in the conversation for women," the statement reads.

"With the changes in modern culture, I want to highlight the strength, confidence and unstoppable power that women have," she continued. "My experience at Bravo has been an incredibly magical ride. I am so grateful to them for highlighting my entrepreneurialism and allowing me to pave the way for many women to achieve their goals. I am excited for my future. The best is yet to come."

How do you feel about Bethenny's surprising exit from The Real Housewives franchise?